John Clayton

Eyes to See and a Tongue to Speak

The unbeliever’s treasure is himself, and therefore his evil heart and the words it sends forth are for his own glory. But, for the Christian, our treasure is Christ, and out of Him and His Spirit’s indwelling presence flows words of praise to God and His glory.

Evidence of a Depraved Mind

And while Herodias held what she perceived to be her trophy of triumph, the Word of God triumphs through the faithful preaching of the Word that by the work of the Holy Spirit the depraved mind be conquered and sanctified by the Word of truth.

Apostolic Ministry

So, let us rejoice in the apostolic ministry commissioned by our Lord, first to Galilee and then to the ends of the earth. Let us thank our Lord for so sure a foundation, so glorious a mission, so faithful a message, the gospel of Jesus Christ.

An Advancing Kingdom

The kingdom of heaven is flourishing on earth since its inauguration but is disregarded by the world. It advances while sin, wickedness, and rebellion continue, but as the advancement continues there will be a conclusion, the close of the age (Matt. 13:39), and the consummation of the kingdom of heaven.

The Gift of Faith

Therefore, the gift of faith is, in a sense spiritually, a gift of life, health, sight, and deliverance, in which we are the blessed recipients of God’s grace, recipients who marvel at such gracious favor from today and forever.

The Feasting and Fasting of Redemption

And fasting prepares our hungry souls for the Wedding Feast of the Lamb. So, there is a feasting and a fasting of redemption which we find in fellowshipping in His Spirit, a fellowship known only by God’s grace through faith in Jesus Christ our Lord.

Called to Forgiveness

It is, however, an encouragement to remember that we who have been called to follow Jesus, who have been called to the feast that is ours in Christ, have been called to forgiveness, a forgiveness that we know only by the mercy of God.

Take Heart

Let us glorify Christ remembering that He says to everyone who by God’s grace have believed in Him: “Take heart, your sins are forgiven.”

The Demanding Authority of Christ

Though the storms of life rage around us, we serve the Son of Man. We worship the King who has everlasting dominion. We are dependent upon the One who rebukes the winds and the sea, and in Him there is great calm. He is the Lord Jesus Christ, demanding discipleship, demanding dependence, and demanding deliverance.

The Healing Authority of Christ

And while sickness and disease are the plagues of this world, our greatest need is eternal. A healed body may enjoy this life but apart from faith in Christ the soul will go to hell.